Body haiku: three gestures that sum up the session
Cool-down for the expressive movement unit inspired by the structure of a haiku: three slow gestures, the first and last short and the middle one longer, that sum up the session. It lowers arousal and makes students reflect on the experience through the body.
How to play
- Walk slowly around the room silently recalling three moments from the session (1 min).
- Explanation of the body haiku: short gesture, long gesture, short gesture, all in slow motion and without sound (1 min).
- Each student creates a haiku and repeats it three times, slower each time (2 min).
- Half the group performs at the same time while the other half watches; then switch (2 min).
- In a circle, each student says one word as the title of their haiku (2 min).
Rules
- Gestures are slow and controlled: nobody drops to the floor or jumps.
- During the showing, watch in silence with no comments.
- Anyone may say «pass» in the word round.
Variations
Easier
Shorten the haiku to a single slow gesture with a clear beginning and end.
Standard
Individual three-gesture haiku shown in halves with a closing title.
Harder
Create the haiku in pairs so that one partner's middle gesture links with the other's.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: create the haiku with the arms, hands and face only.
- Hearing impairment: write the instructions on the board.
- Very shy students: perform the haiku facing away from the group or with eyes closed.
Learning goals
- Lower arousal through slow, mindful movement.
- Condense an experience into a short physical structure.
- Watch classmates' expression respectfully.
Teacher tip
Read a short real haiku first to convey the idea of economy. The titles can help you assess what students took away from the session.
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